Scottish Hydro launches £7.4bn contractor framework to accelerate grid expansion

The utility, part of SSE, is inviting bids across six national workstreams covering civils, buildings, overhead line and underground cable construction. The framework – which could run for up to 96 months – will underpin transmission upgrades, customer connections, asset renewals and the wider net zero transition as SSE ramps up capital spending on critical grid infrastructure.

Contractors can compete for all six lots, which span design, management, construction, testing and commissioning. The procurement is being run through a negotiated procedure with prior competition.

Civils works – split by value

• Up to £10m — substation earthworks, access roads, drainage, ducting, fencing and environmental mitigation. This lot is divided into five regional zones across Scotland.
• Over £10m — major and complex schemes including bridges, retaining walls, culverts, flood defences, road realignments, peatland restoration and works adjacent to live transmission assets.

Buildings & Infrastructure

Covers offices, training facilities, welfare buildings, refurbishments, extensions, M&E fit‑outs, BIM requirements, planning submissions, environmental reporting and replacement of RAAC roof structures where required.

Overhead line pole construction

Typically at 132kV, including foundations, pole erection, conductor installation and substation connections.

Overhead line tower construction

Lattice tower works at 132kV, 275kV and 400kV, including foundations, steelwork assembly, erection, stringing and line realignments.

Underground cable construction

For 132kV+ transmission routes, covering route design, trenching, duct installation, joint bays, cable pulling, reinstatement and commissioning support.

SSE said the framework will be central to expanding grid capacity and connecting new renewable generation as electricity demand rises. The programme supports the UK’s wider net‑zero targets and forms part of SSE’s large capital delivery portfolio.